High-performance and rapid-response n-butanol sensor based on ZnO/SnO2 heterojunction

Abstract

Background

The rapid identification of n-butanol holds substantial significance; however, the current response speed of n-butanol gas sensors is relatively slow. The ZnO/SnO₂ composite nanofibers present a considerable prospect as a suitable alternative for conventional n-butanol sensors.

Methods

Pure SnO₂ and composite nanofibers composed of ZnO/SnO₂ with distinct molar ratios were crafted via the electrospinning technique. The microstructure and components of these composite nanofibers were analyzed and identified using XRD and SEM.

Significant findings

The ZnO/SnO₂ composite nanofibers-based gas sensor (ZS2) exhibited enhanced response towards n-butanol, achieving a high response of 29.68 to 30 ppm n-butanol at 150 °C, which was 3.3 times greater than that of SnO₂. Moreover, the sensor also showcased a swift response time, taking just 1 s to react. Furthermore, the ZS2 sensor had a lower potential limit for detecting n-butanol, with a value of 0.27 ppm. The good repeatability and stability were also confirmed in this study. The successful creation of heterojunctions is thought to be contributing factors to ZS2 nanofibers’ superior sensing capabilities. Therefore, ZnO/SnO₂ composite nanofibers can be considered as a promising candidate for sensing materials in practical applications.